February 2025 Update Preview: Windows 11 Build 22631.4825 (KB5050092) Released

Discover Windows 11 Build 22631.4825 (KB5050092): Key Features and Installation Guide

Microsoft has initiated the rollout of Windows 11 build 22631.4825 (KB5050092) in the Release Preview Channel as part of the upcoming version 23H2. This significant update promises not only aesthetic enhancements but also essential fixes, which will be incorporated in the February 2025 Patch Tuesday update. Users can expect an array of improvements that enhance productivity and usability.

What’s New in Windows 11 Build 22631.4825?

This build heralds several non-security fixes and improvements designed to enhance user experience across various features:

1. Enhanced Taskbar Experience

With the release of KB5050092, Windows 11 is elevating its Taskbar functionality. Notable changes include:

Sleeker Previews: Users will notice improved previews and animations when hovering over Taskbar icons, making multitasking visually appealing and intuitive.
New Icons: A fresh icon for the Windows Studio Effects will be added in the System Tray, specifically for Copilot+ PCs, signaling enhanced accessibility to AI features.

2. Introducing the “Resume”Feature

This update introduces a game-changing Resume capability, allowing continuity of work across devices. Here’s how it works:

If you edit a document from your OneDrive on your mobile and return to your PC within five minutes, a notification will prompt you to resume where you left off.
This feature is tailored for use with Microsoft accounts and applies only to selected applications such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, OneNote, and PDF files.

To enable this feature, navigate to Settings > Apps > Resume.

3. File Explorer Enhancements

Post-installation of build 22631.4825, the File Explorer gets a notable upgrade:

There’s a modified interface that showcases files shared with you, encompassing files, emails, Teams chats, and more.
The “Home” page features a “Shared” tab where you can easily view all shared items.
Right-clicking items in the left navigation pane now offers a “New” menu, allowing users to swiftly create folders.

File Explorer New Folder Option — File Explorer’s New Folder Option / Image: Mauro Huculak

4. Windows Share Improvements

Sharing just got simpler. With the new Windows Share features, users can now share files directly to compatible apps:

To access this functionality, simply right-click on a file and select the share option.

5. Updated Magnifier Options

This build enhances the Magnifier tool with new zoom controls:

Reset Options: You can now reset the zoom to fit the screen or revert to the last zoom level, simplifying accessibility for users needing visual adjustments.

Magnifier New Buttons — Magnifier’s New Buttons / Image: Mauro Huculak

6. Fixes and Improvements

As part of this non-security update, fixes are deployed across various areas of the OS:

Addressing issues within the Snipping tool and Chinese Pinyin IME.
Continuous fixes for Task Manager, Remote Desktop, and more, including updates to the driver vulnerability lists for increased security against BYOVD attacks.

How to Install Windows 11 Build 22631.4825

To get started with this update, make sure your device is enrolled in the Release Preview Channel via the Windows Insider Program settings located in the “Update & Security” section. Here’s the step-by-step guide:

Open Settings and navigate to Update & Security.
Enroll your computer into the Windows Insider Program.
Tweak your settings to ensure that “Get the latest updates as soon as they’re available” is toggled on.
Click the “Check for Updates” button to start downloading build 22631.4825.

For additional insights, please refer to the

Additional Insights

1. What should I do if the update doesn’t appear in Windows Update?

If the update isn’t showing up, ensure your device is properly enrolled in the Release Preview Channel. You can also try restarting your PC and checking for updates again.

2. Will the new features be available on all Windows 11 devices?

Most features will be available on devices running the latest supported version of Windows 11. However, some features might require specific hardware capabilities or updates from your manufacturer.

3. How can I revert to a previous version of Windows 11 after the update?

You can revert to a prior version within 10 days of the update by navigating to Settings > System > Recovery.

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